South America is a tableau of diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures, offering a captivating mix of modern cities, ancient history, and breathtaking natural wonders.
From the sprawling metropolises of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro to the rugged beauty of Torres del Paine and Iguazú Falls, the continent has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff exploring the remnants of the Inca Empire in Cusco, a foodie sampling the finest wines in the Colchagua Valley, or a stargazer in the Atacama Desert, South America delivers unforgettable experiences.
This article highlights 12 of the best places to visit in South America, showcasing a range of urban gems and natural marvels.
Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer adventure, these sublime destinations should be at the top of your South America travel itinerary.
Santiago, Chile
Santiago is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city, serving as a convenient gateway for exploring Patagonia, Easter Island, the Atacama Desert, and South America more broadly. It is also one of the best places to visit in South America.
Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santiago offers travelers a rich blend of culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventure. Backdropped by a crown of mountain peaks, the city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the bohemian charm of Bellavista to the upscale elegance of Vitacura, invite visitors to while away full afternoons on foot. Santiago’s modern infrastructure makes it easy to explore, whether you’re sampling its world-class dining scene or strolling through leafy parks.
One of Santiago’s must-visit spots is Mercado Central, famous for its fresh seafood and bustling atmosphere, perfect for a lunchtime visit. For panoramic views of the city, take the funicular to Cerro San Cristobal which offers stunning vistas of Santiago and the surrounding Andes. For a more relaxed day, take a stroll through Bicentenario Park, where you can enjoy sculptures, fountains, and peaceful green spaces.
Santiago’s rich history is also on display at the Museo de la Memoria, offering an insightful look into Chile’s time under Pinochet’s dictatorship. For wine lovers, a visit to Bocanáriz or Chipe Libre offers a taste of Chile’s renowned wines and a lesson in the country’s pisco rivalry with Peru.
The best time to visit Santiago is during the shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May, when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are thinner.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, often called the “Paris of South America,” is a lively port city known for its rich European influence, cultural depth, and vibrant energy. The city’s architectural beauty, from the neoclassical facades to the ornate streets of Recoleta, blends past and present. Buenos Aires is famous for tango, with performances and milongas (social tango dances) found throughout the city, particularly at historic venues like La Catedral in the bohemian neighborhood of San Telmo.
A visit to Buenos Aires isn’t complete without exploring La Bombonera Stadium, home to the legendary Boca Juniors football team, and the surrounding La Boca neighborhood with its colorful streets and buzzy art scene. (One of the best things to do in Argentina.) Another Buenos Aires must-see is the Cementerio de la Recoleta, a fascinating place to wander among grand marble mausoleums, including the tomb of Eva Perón.
Buenos Aires offers a little something for everyone, from countless museums to shops and renowned steakhouse restaurants where carnivores can indulge in world-class Argentine beef.
While Buenos Aires can be visited year-round, the ideal months are during the fall (March to May) and spring (October to November). The city is particularly stunning in November, when the jacaranda trees are in full bloom, adding splashes of vibrant purple to the streets.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Glitzy Rio de Janeiro embodies Brazil’s laid-back ease, with golden beaches, lush mountains, and rich cultural heritage. Set along the Atlantic Coast, Rio is a heady mix of natural beauty and urban verve, making it one of the world’s most-visited cities and one of the best places to go in South America. From Sugerloaf Mountain to the towering figure of Christ the Redeemer, Rio is as famous for its must-visit landmarks as it is for its carefree coastal attitude.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Rio’s energy is by exploring its neighborhoods. Copacabana and Ipanema are perfect for soaking up beach culture while sipping a caipirinha at an open-air restaurant and watching locals play volleyball or beach football. A visit to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, with its cobblestone streets and artist studios, throws buzzy artist vibes. If you’re seeking history, Rio’s colonial past can be explored in the historic downtown area where Portuguese architecture and monuments provide a deeper understanding of the city’s rich heritage.
Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Rio de Janeiro is from December to March, when the weather is ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. This also coincides with Carnival, the world’s largest and most colorful celebration, where samba dancers and parades light up the city. If you want to avoid peak season while the weather is still pleasant, head to Rio during fall or spring.
Cusco, Peru
Cusco, once the heart of the Inca Empire, is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cusco masterfully blends its Inca heritage with Spanish colonial influences, creating a rich tapestry of architectural and cultural wonders. As the gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, Cusco offers travelers an immersive experience into Peru’s past and present.
The city’s streets reveal its layered history. From the well-preserved Inca foundations still visible beneath colonial buildings to the imposing Sacsayhuamán fortress that overlooks the city, Cusco is a testament to both Inca ingenuity and Spanish influence. As one of the best places to visit in South America, it offers a rich blend of history and architecture. Key landmarks include the Korikancha (Temple of the Sun), Plaza de Armas, and the intricate stonework of Loreto Street, featuring the famous 12-cornered stone.
Cusco sits at an altitude of 11,150 feet, so it’s wise to explore the city at a relaxed pace to acclimatize to the thinner air. Many travelers use Cusco as the starting point for the Inca Trail, and it’s recommended to spend at least two nights in the city to adjust. For those interested in Inca history, additional time allows for a more thorough exploration of the city’s museums, archaeological sites, and charming cobblestone streets.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a city bursting with color, history, and energy. Cradled by centuries-old stone walls, it offers well-preserved colonial charm and modern vibrancy. Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ideal place to explore on foot, with bougainvillea-hugged colonial homes, cobblestone streets, and leafy plazas. Spend your days wandering through historic palaces, churches, and monasteries, many of which have been beautifully restored or converted into boutique hotels.
A visit to Cartagena isn’t complete without exploring the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, where street art and live music fill the air. By night, the square at Plaza Trinidad comes alive with street vendors offering delicacies like picada, a dish of diced meat and plantains. History lovers should pay a visit to San Felipe Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the bay, the site reveals the city’s strategic importance during colonial times.
Just outside Cartagena, the Rosario Islands offer a peaceful escape with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, well suited for a day trip.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or relaxation, Cartagena’s mix of old-world romance and contemporary creativity makes it one of the best travel destinations in South America.
Cuenca, Ecuador
Nestled in the Andean highlands of Ecuador, Cuenca is a city that exudes colonial charm and cultural richness. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca’s well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic plazas transport visitors back in time. The city’s colonial past is visible everywhere, from grand cathedrals to narrow alleys.
One of Cuenca’s standout landmarks is the New Cathedral, adorned with iconic blue domes that dominate the city skyline. Nearby, you can explore the Old Cathedral, dating back to the 16th century, which now houses a museum. As one of the best places to travel in South America, Cuenca offers a deep connection to history and culture. For a deeper dive into Cuenca’s pre-Colombian history, the Pumapungo Archaeological Park offers a glimpse into the ancient Inca ruins that once stood in the region.
Beyond its historical sites, Cuenca is also a hub for artisans and craftspeople, known for the production of the famous Panama hat, which originates in Ecuador. Visitors can browse the local markets for handmade textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, or visit the various ateliers scattered around the city.
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Known as one of South America’s premier luxury beach destinations, Punta del Este is often compared to glamorous coastal getaways like St. Tropez and Miami’s South Beach. Situated along Uruguay’s Atlantic Coast, it’s a chic blend of stunning beaches, high-end resorts, and an art scene that punches above its weight. The town is especially popular with well-heeled South Americans seeking a summer retreat.
Punta del Este’s appeal lies in its diversity of experiences. On one side, you have Playa Brava, known for its strong surf and the iconic sculpture of “La Mano,” while on the other, Playa Mansa offers calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. These beaches are lined with trendy bars and restaurants where you can sip local tannat wine or Uruguay’s ubiquitous drink, yerba mate, as you watch the sun arc across the sky.
Beyond the beaches, Punta del Este offers cultural highlights such as Casa Pueblo, an eccentric art museum and boutique hotel built by the Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró. The town is also home to upscale shops, vibrant nightlife, and world-class dining.
If you want suntanning weather, the best time to visit Uruguay is during the South American summer months of December to February, when the town comes alive with events, beach parties, and an influx of stylish visitors.
Arequipa, Peru
Situated in southwestern Peru, Arequipa is a city rich in history and culture, offering a unique blend of indigenous and colonial influences. Known as the “White City” due to its buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic stone, Arequipa’s architecture is a striking feature of its identity. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see, with its grand Plaza de Armas surrounded by impressive arcades and the stunning Cathedral of Arequipa.
Arequipa is framed by majestic Andean volcanoes—Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu—providing a dramatic backdrop to the city. These towering peaks not only add to the city’s charm but also make it one of the best places to go in South America for adventurers looking to explore the surrounding landscapes. The city itself is a cultural hub, filled with museums, colonial architecture, and vibrant plazas.
Think about visiting Arequipa during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
From Arequipa, a visit to the nearby Colca Canyon is highly recommended. One of the world’s deepest canyons, Colca offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condors in flight.
Torres del Paine, Chile
Located in the heart of southern Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s most breathtaking destinations, known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged peaks, and pristine wilderness. The park is home to the famous three granite towers (Torres) that serve as the park’s namesake. These iconic formations, along with snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and shimmering blue lakes, make Torres del Paine a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Torres del Paine offers an incredible range of activities for all types of travelers, from day hikes and overnight treks to more relaxed pursuits like wildlife tracking. The park is renowned for its diverse fauna, including guanacos, pumas, condors, and foxes. Whether you’re hiking the famous W Circuit or kayaking among icebergs, the park’s vast wilderness promises an unforgettable experience.
Travelers can enjoy Patagonia’s beauty without sacrificing comfort. Several eco-lodges in and around the park blend luxury and sustainability, providing personalized services, guided excursions, and gourmet dining while maintaining a deep connection to the surrounding environment.
The best time to visit Torres del Paine is between November and March when the weather is more pleasant. However, there will be crowds. For those seeking a quieter experience, the shoulder months of October and April offer fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park in Argentine Patagonia, is one of the country’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This massive ice formation is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing, and its slow, steady creep offers visitors the chance to witness spectacular ice calving, where huge chunks of ice break off and collapse into the water below. The glacier spans approximately 96 square miles and stands 230 feet above the surface of Lake Argentino.
Visitors to Perito Moreno can experience the glacier in various ways. Walkways and platforms allow for up-close views, while adventurous travelers can opt for a guided trek across the glacier’s surface. For a more relaxed experience, boat tours offer a stunning perspective of the glacier’s immense size and the deep blue hues of the ice formations.
The nearby town of El Calafate serves as the gateway to Perito Moreno, offering a range of luxury accommodations and dining experiences for travelers. Whether you’re hiking the surrounding trails, kayaking in the lake, or simply marveling at the glacier from the shore, this natural wonder is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The best time to visit Perito Moreno is during Argentina’s summer months (November to March) when the weather is mild for outdoor exploration. However, being one of the best places to travel in South America, you will share this natural wonder with many other visitors.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert, located in northern Chile, is one of the most captivating and otherworldly regions in the world. With landscapes that range from bubbling geyser fields and vast salt flats to lunar-like valleys and snow-capped volcanoes, it’s easy to see why the Atacama is often compared to Mars or the Moon. In fact, NASA has even used this unique environment to test its Mars Rovers. Despite its extreme desert conditions, the Atacama is teeming with natural beauty, adventure, and luxurious lodges.
One of the highlights of the Atacama is the Moon Valley, where you can witness the sunrise amid rock formations that resemble a lunar landscape. For stargazers, the Atacama Desert offers some of the clearest night skies on Earth, making it a prime destination for astronomy tours. Another must-see is the El Tatio Geysers, where the early-morning mist and boiling water create an unforgettable scene.
Travelers can also explore the Rainbow Valley, known for multi-colored hills, or relax in the geothermal waters of the Puritama Hot Springs. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Tara Salt Flats and Chaxa Lagoon offer the chance to see flamingos and other fascinating species against a backdrop of dramatic rock formations and reflective lagoons.
Luxury travelers will find a range of accommodations that seamlessly blend with the desert’s environment. From eco-lodges to boutique hotels, these properties offer exceptional comfort and personalized experiences, from horseback riding to wilderness picnics.
Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil)
Straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls is one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of 275 waterfalls, is a breathtaking spectacle that has earned its place as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The falls system stretches nearly two miles wide and plunges over the edge of the Paraná Plateau, with the most dramatic drop at Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), where the water crashes 269 feet into the abyss below.
A visit to Iguazú Falls offers more than just stunning views; it’s an immersive experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests. As you explore the winding walkways in Iguazú National Park, you’ll have opportunities to spot wildlife like capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, tapirs, jaguars, and white-eyed parakeets in the surrounding subtropical jungle. For those who crave adventure, a boat ride to the foot of the thundering falls offers an exhilarating way to experience the sheer force and majesty of the cascades up close.
Iguazú Falls provides two distinct vantage points. The Argentinian side allows visitors to get up close and personal with the falls via extensive walking trails and catwalks that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, including the dramatic Devil’s Throat. Meanwhile, the Brazilian side offers panoramic views, giving a broader perspective of the entire waterfall system, making it well worth visiting both countries.
Beyond the falls, there’s plenty more to experience. You can kayak the Paraná River, one of the world’s longest rivers, or take part in a traditional yerba mate ceremony, a cultural staple of the region. For food lovers, Puerto Iguazú offers cooking classes where you can learn to make local favorites like empanadas and alfajores.
One of the best places to visit in South America, Iguazú Falls can be visited year-round but the water volume peaks between October and December. Note, Iguazú Falls is a world-famous icon and is well-frequented by both international and domestic travelers. For this reason, we recommend against visiting during Easter and during July’s domestic (“winter”) holidays when the site becomes extremely crowded with Sout American holidaymakers.
Conclusion
From the vibrant streets of Cartagena to the awe-inspiring glaciers of Perito Moreno, South America offers a world of exploration that caters to every traveler’s taste. The continent’s blend of rich history, diverse ecosystems, and cultural dynamism makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re standing at the foot of Iguazú Falls, hiking in Torres del Paine, or soaking up the culture in Buenos Aires, each destination offers unique experiences that will leave a lasting impression.
At Extraordinary Journeys, we specialize in creating personalized, luxury travel experiences that showcase the very best of South America. From bespoke itineraries to seamless, worry-free travel, we ensure that every detail of your adventure is tailored to your needs.
Ready to start planning your dream South American journey? Contact us and let us craft the perfect itinerary for your next adventure at some of the best places to visit in South America.
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